The Independent Regulatory Review Commission Thursday unanimously approved a set of final regulations from the Public Utility Commission that are aimed at modernizing the commission’s regulation of taxicabs in order to help them better compete with the recently legalized transportation network companies such as Uber and Lyft.

Stemming from enabling legislation in Act 85 of 2016 and Act 164 of 2016 that allowed the temporary then permanent legalization of TNCs, the legislature tasked the PUC with promulgating new regulations as they pertain to taxicab and motor carrier companies that would allow them to better compete with TNCs, which operate on a different business model than traditional taxi companies.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission announced Thursday it has settled with Uber over the $11.3 million fine it levied against the ride-sharing company last spring for illegally operating as a transportation network company in Pennsylvania without being licensed.

More specifically at issue, was a six-month period in 2014 during which Uber operated in Pennsylvania before it was granted an experimental license.

In an email sent to Mayor Bill Peduto on Tuesday, Pittsburgh City Controller Michael Lamb asked the mayor to make clear what terms, if any, have been negotiated with the ride-sharing company Uber concerning data collection while the company’s autonomous vehicles are being tested and used on city streets.

“I support your efforts to bring new jobs and industry to Pittsburgh and you are correct that the relationship between the City and Uber must be a ‘two way street',” wrote Lamb in the letter. “Unfortunately, to this point, the relationship with Uber appears to be a one way limited access highway.”

Pittsburgh City Councilman Dan Gilman (District 8) announced a new partnership Tuesday afternoon between ride-sharing company Uber and the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh to provide free ride for victims of domestic violence needing to get to safe shelter.

“As Pittsburgh moves to a new economy and brings in new economic partners, we have to work together to also recognize the importance of corporate and social responsibility and making sure that we’re reaching out to the people of our communities when they need it most,” said the Councilman. “This partnership will enable victims to arrive at the shelter safely and free of charge.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation announced this week they have applied to the US Department of Transportation to be designated as an Automated Vehicle Proving Ground Pilot to facilitate the safe and innovative development of these technologies.

“This application further illustrates that we’re a national leader in supporting automated vehicle development with safety and flexibility in mind,” PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards said in a release on the announcement.